| $ Impact |
Domestic tourism generated an
economic impact of $7.22 million in Clay County in 1997. This is a 2.0%
increase over 1996 it compares with a 2.9% increase for North Carolina.
Clay is 92nd in travel impact among North Carolina's 100 counties.
|
| Jobs |
60 jobs in Clay County are directly
attributable to travel and tourism. Travel generated a $980,000 payroll
in Clay County in 1997.
|
| Taxes |
State and local tax revenues from
travel to Clay County amounted to $910,000 in 1997. This represents a $121
tax savings to each county resident
|
| Attractions |
Local attractions include Lake
Chatuge, the Nantahala National Forest, Standing Indian Mountain, the Nantahala
and Hiwassee Rivers and Peacock Playhouse in historic Hayesville--afford
ample opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, golf, white water rafting,
swimming boating, tennis and theater.
|
| Visitors |
A 1994 survey found historic sites,
beaches, scenic areas, museums, golf and fishing most popular among visitors
to North Carolina. Average age is 41 years; 45% had household incomes $50,000
or more; 48%are college graduates, 21%graduate or professional school educated. |
| Origins |
Top states of origin for North
Carolina domestic visitors are Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland,
South Carolina, Ohio, and Georgia.
|
| Hotels |
Some 38% of visitors stay in hotels
and motels. Hotel occupancy for the Advantage West economic development
region varies seasonally. During 1997 it ranged from 22.70% to 62.91%;
this compares with occupancy ranging from 21.15% to 71.78% for 1995. Average
daily rates for this region in 1997 ranged from $31.42 to $85.02 and tend
to be higher than the state average. |